1. Lavender

   The herb behind this sweet-smelling aroma isn’t limited to perfumes and aromatherapy. Lavender has a long medicinal history that includes being used as an antiseptic and treatment for burns, insect bites, inflammation and acne. Additionally, when diffused into the air, lavender promotes restful sleep and relaxation.

   • Skin solution. Lavender has powerful anti-inflammatory properties and can reduce puffiness from a night of tossing and turning. Try this trick when fighting fatigue: add a few drops of pure lavender essential oil to warm water and let steep for a few minutes. Then, soak a washcloth in this decoction for 10 minutes. Next, squeeze out the excess water and roll up the washcloth, placing it over your eyes for 10 minutes. Voila! Instant relaxation.
   • Product pick. Before bedtime, soothe your body and mind with Sundari Lavender Moisturizer for Dry Skin. This all-natural formula features therapeutic lavender extracts that’ll bring smooth skin and a restful night’s sleep.

2. Olive leaf

   With the help of a special disease-fighting chemical called Oleuropein, an olive tree can live to be over 3,000 years old. Scientists have tapped into this powerful ingredient and use it to enhance the body’s immune response. While it won’t offer the longevity of the olive tree, Oleuropein will protect the body from harmful bacteria and other intruders.

   • Skin solution.Packed with powerful antioxidants and anti-aging elements, Oleuropein is a powerhouse when it comes to skincare. Eye creams and serums that contain Oleuropein can effectively fight puffiness, sagging skin and dryness.
   • Product pick. Try L'Occitane Olive Harvest Express Eye Treatment to reduce puffiness and dark circles around your eyes and add intense hydration.

3. Peppermint

   Widely known for its minty fresh flavor, peppermint goes far beyond food. Commonly used for ailments of the digestive tract, peppermint also helps to relieve headaches and stress with its soothing aroma.

   • Skin solution. Hot and sweaty from a long run or working in the garden? Cool off instantly by showering with a peppermint gel or soap. Also, apply peppermint lotion to relieve pain and reduce sensitivity.
   • Product pick. Bliss Mammoth Minty Scrub Soap is a two-in-one treat on hot days. Containing tiny scrubbing beads, this truly gigantic soap scrubs away grime and dead skin cells and instantly cools the skin with a blast of fresh peppermint.

4. Rosemary

   In ancient and medieval times, thyme was believed to have invigorating, restorative properties. Prior to the advent of modern antiseptics, it was used to medicate bandages before they were applied to wounds. More recently, rosemary has been shown to fight free radicals by protecting the integrity of DNA, thereby reducing the risk of cancer.

   • Skin solution. Rosemary can rejuvenate the mind while reducing the signs of aging. Plus, rosemary reduces dark circles, which are often caused by tiny hemorrhages, or tears, of the capillaries. Using rosemary will help strengthen these tiny vessels and brighten the appearance of the skin.
   • Product pick. Murad Lighten and Brighten Eye Treatment is rich in herbal extracts and contains linalool, which is derived from rosemary. This product is an excellent choice to strengthen the delicate under-eye capillaries and reduce dark circles.

5. Thyme

   Many recognize thyme as a delicious herb used to spice up a variety of culinary dishes. But the benefits of thyme go far beyond the kitchen. Throughout history, thyme has been used as an antiseptic to treat wounds and relieve the flu and respiratory problems. Interestingly, ancient Egyptians used thyme for embalming and even as an aphrodisiac.

   • Skin solution. Today, thyme is often used to treat the skin and scalp. It boasts antibacterial, antiseptic and antioxidant benefits.

   • Product pick. Korres Thyme Honey 24 Hour Moisturizing Cream contains 5 percent Thyme Honey to moisturize, nourish and restore elasticity to skin.

There you have it — five herbs that you can savor beyond the kitchen. But remember that natural ingredients can still irritate your skin. Before trying any new product, always do a patch test.

See also:

Green Your Skin Care Routine

Natural Options for Healthy Hair Growth

Look to Nature for a Gentle Skincare Routine